As 2025 closes, the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act stands closer than ever to becoming law, with the NAB mapping out what remains to push the legislation across the finish line in early 2026. The bill, which would require automakers to include AM radio as a standard feature in vehicles sold in the United States, has evolved from a niche concern into one of the rare bipartisan success stories on Capitol Hill.
On the NAB Podcast, NAB SVP of Communications Alex Siciliano spoke with NAB Senior Vice President of Government Relations Nicole Gustafson about the bill’s rapid rise, the obstacles that slowed its progress, and the critical role broadcasters continue to play. Gustafson called the effort “a master class in legislating and lobbying,” noting that in more than two decades in Washington she has never seen an issue gain such broad support so quickly.
The push intensified after several automakers announced plans to remove AM receivers from electric vehicles, citing interference issues. That decision triggered swift backlash from broadcasters, public safety officials, and listeners. Ford reversed course, but when others did not, the NAB concluded legislation was the only durable solution.
Introduced in the 118th Congress, the bill attracted an unusually wide coalition. In the House, 316 members signed on as co-sponsors, while 61 senators joined the effort. Senators Ted Cruz and Ed Markey emerged as lead sponsors, a partnership Gustafson described as emblematic of the bill’s cross-party appeal. Support also came from groups ranging from AARP and the Heritage Foundation to labor unions, churches, first responders, emergency managers, and state officials.
Grassroots advocacy proved decisive. Stations aired PSAs, covered the issue in news reports, and urged listeners to contact lawmakers, creating constituent pressure that translated into momentum on Capitol Hill.
Despite overwhelming support, procedural changes in Congress repeatedly stalled the bill. Measures that once would have been folded into year-end packages now face resistance, forcing the NAB and its allies to reintroduce the legislation and rebuild support in a new session. Even so, both chambers advanced the bill through committee in 2025 with near-unanimous votes.
A fall government shutdown further delayed action, but House leaders including Speaker Mike Johnson, Whip Tom Emmer, and Majority Leader Steve Scalise have pledged to bring the bill to the floor early in 2026. In the Senate, objections from a small number of members have complicated unanimous consent, leaving leaders to pursue floor time or attachment to larger legislation.
Gustafson said the bill’s durability comes from its focus on public safety and local service. During emergencies, she noted, communities rely on AM radio for trusted, accessible information. For broadcasters, the message is clear: success in Washington begins locally, and continued engagement at home could finally carry the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act across the finish line.